Evidence of Zoonotic Transmission of <i>Cryptococcus neoformans</i> from a Pet Cockatoo to an Immunocompromised Patient

Abstract

The indistinguishable patient and cockatoo isolates strongly suggest that the patient's infection resulted from exposure to aerosolized cockatoo excreta. Although the incidence of cryptococcal infection due to such exposure is unknown, it may be prudent to advise immunocompromised patients to avoid pet birds and avian excreta.